Harry Johns, president and CEO of the Alzheimer's Association, represented the Alzheimer's community at the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Committee on Appropriations hearing. Johns outlined the dramatic human suffering caused by Alzheimer's and the enormous strain the disease places on the health care system and the federal budget, making a clear case for increased resources to address the Alzheimer's epidemic.

"Unless something is done, those costs are projected to soar to $1.1 trillion in 2050 alone, and that is not inflated, that is in today's dollars," Johns said. "That is more that the total discretionary spending cap for fiscal year 2013 established by the Budget Control Act of 2011."

As required by the National Alzheimer's Project Act (P.L. 111-375) that was passed unanimously with bipartisan congressional support in 2010, the first National Alzheimer's Plan has been developed and submitted to Congress — consistent with the goals established by the National Alzheimer's Project Act with the promise of important progress when fully implemented. To achieve the plan's ambitious goal to prevent and effectively treat Alzheimer's disease by 2025, smart commitment of resources must be made.

"Having a plan with measurable outcomes is important, but unless there are resources to implement the plan, we cannot hope to make much progress. If we are going to succeed in the fight against Alzheimer's, Congress must provide the resources the scientists need," Johns said. "These funds are a critically needed down payment for needed research and services for Alzheimer's patients and their families."

The Association is committed to accelerating progress of new treatments, preventions and, ultimately, a cure. Through funded projects and partnerships, the Association has been part of every major research advancement in the past 30 years. Likewise, the Association works to enhance care and provide support for all those affected by Alzheimer's and reaches millions of people affected by Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

"The Alzheimer's Association appreciates the steadfast support of the Subcommittee and its priority setting activities. We look forward to continuing to work with Congress in order to address the Alzheimer's crisis. We ask Congress to address Alzheimer's with the same bipartisan collaboration demonstrated in the passage of the National Alzheimer's Project Act and with a commitment equal to the scale of the crisis," Johns said.

Alzheimer's AssociationThe Alzheimer's Association is the world's leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's. For more information, visit www.alz.org.